Health Corner

Don’t panic if your tumor marker result is abnormal!

An abnormal tumor marker reading doesn’t necessarily mean you have cancer. Tumor markers only indicate the risk of cancer—it cannot confirm a diagnosis on its own.

What are tumor markers?

Tumor markers are proteins or antigens produced by cancer cells or by the body in response to cancer.
Common examples include alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) for liver cancer, cancer antigen 19-9 (CA19-9) for pancreatic cancer, and carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) for colorectal cancer.

Doctors check these marker levels through a simple blood test. If the levels exceed the normal reference range, it may suggest a higher cancer risk—but it cannot independently confirm cancer.

Common tumor markers and related cancers

• AFP (Alpha-fetoprotein): Liver cancer, testicular cancer

• CEA (Carcinoembryonic antigen): Colorectal cancer, stomach cancer, lung cancer

• PSA (Prostate-specific antigen): Prostate cancer

• CA125: Ovarian cancer, breast cancer

• CA19-9: Pancreatic cancer, gallbladder cancer

• CA15-3: Breast cancer

• CYFRA 21-1 / NSE: Different types of lung cancer

• SCC (Squamous cell carcinoma antigen): Head and neck cancer, cervical cancer

Do I need a tumor marker test?

It is generally recommended for:

• Individuals over 40

• Those with a family history of cancer

• High-risk groups, such as smokers

The test helps assess cancer risk, monitor treatment effectiveness, and track recurrence.
However, keep in mind:

• False positives may occur due to inflammation or benign conditions.

• False negatives may occur if the cancer is still in its early stage.
  Because of this, tumor marker results should be interpreted together with imaging scans or genetic tests for a more accurate assessment.

There are many health screening programs that include selected tumor marker panels as additional risk assessments for healthy individuals.
If you’re unsure which markers are most relevant to your personal health risks, consult your doctor for recommendations.

Cancer risk assessment programs available at Human Health eShop

Human Health offers a range of cancer risk assessment plans for different organs. You can view and purchase them on our English online store:

• • Early Nasopharyngeal Cancer Screening (HCENPC01): HK$1,500 (original HK$1,700)

  • Lung Cancer Risk Assessment (HCIMP017): HK$1,800 (original HK$2,840)

  • Gastrointestinal Cancer Risk Assessment (HCECC01): HK$1,300 (original HK$2,200)

  • Breast and Cervical Cancer Risk Assessment (HCEBC01): HK$4,000 (original HK$6,030)

All plans are available for online purchase through the Human Health eShop (English version).
If you have any questions about these packages, please contact our hotline at 2397 2111 for assistance.